SPCA of Texas Announces Debra Burns, New Senior Vice President of Development

(DALLAS, TX; October 22, 2014)—The SPCA of Texas is pleased to announce that Debra Burns joined the non-profit animal welfare organization as Senior Vice President of Development on October 13, 2014.

Mrs. Burns brings a life-long experience in development at major public and private research universities and healthcare institutions, in particular the execution of comprehensive campaigns and creation of million-dollar relationships. She also brings an exceedingly high-level of proven expertise in foundation management, leadership engagement, major and planned gifts and extensive experience with governing boards, donors and staff.

“It is a privilege to represent the SPCA of Texas and to build upon its success to date,” Mrs. Burns said. “I look forward to developing financial resources for the future so more animals in North Texas will receive exceptional care and a loving home.”

Prior to joining the SPCA of Texas, Mrs. Burns, a Dallas resident since 2004, served 10 years as a Director of Development for the University of Memphis Fogelman College of Business and Economics where she stewarded that University’s largest gift ($15 million), raised an additional $10 million endowment, and developed sustainable corporate relationships that resulted in the 10-year renewal of a six-figure annual operating revenue stream. Those successes were preceded by her execution and direction of an endowment campaign for the college that resulted in securing six and seven figure gifts launching the foundation for the University’s successful $250 million comprehensive campaign. In addition, as Special Assistant to the President, Debra’s establishment and direction of best practices for board operations, development and management of a 44-member advisory board and six task forces resulted in increased public and private funding for the University. Debra’s extended resume of development career accomplishments all over the U.S. includes consistent achievement of goals, building long-term relationships, highly successful experience in operations and new construction projects, strategic planning, new revenue-producing programs, and annual special events.

“Debra's strong ethics and passion for the SPCA of Texas mission are immediately evident and she is a wonderful addition to our organization,” said James Bias, SPCA of Texas President.

Mrs. Burns holds a B.S. Business Administration (Marketing/Economics) from The University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut and an M.A. Dispute Resolution and Conflict Management from Southern Methodist University Dallas, Texas. She is a Certified Fundraising Executive, a member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals, American Bar Association and active community volunteer.

Mrs. Burns resides in Highland Park with her family and cats Al, Lexus and Boone.